Mobile gaming has evolved greatly, offering diverse and highly innovative experiences. It captivates players worldwide. The best mobile games of 2021 include thrilling RPGs and intense battle royales. They showcase a wide range of options on both iOS and Android platforms. These games have made a big mark on portable entertainment with their engaging gameplay and stunning visuals.
These top mobile games were chosen for their user engagement, unique gameplay, and striking visuals. They have significantly impacted the gaming industry. From free games to premium choices, there’s something for everyone. This is our guide to the best 10 mobile games of the year, explaining what sets them apart.
Key Takeaways
- Mobile gaming offers diverse and engaging experiences.
- The selection includes both free and premium mobile games.
- User engagement, originality, and visual appeal are key factors.
- Top games include options from various genres, such as RPGs and battle royales.
- They are available on both iOS and Android platforms, reaching a broad audience.
Among Us
“Among Us” first came out in 2018 but really took off in 2020, becoming a top game. It mixes teamwork and trickery in a way that’s drawing in players worldwide. You either play as a crewmate or an imposter aboard a spaceship. This sets the stage for smart moves and lies.
Gameplay Features
In Among Us gameplay, you work to uncover the impostors while completing tasks. As the crewmates fix the ship, impostors try to stop them secretly. This battle creates an intense and fun atmosphere. And all this action makes talking and working with others crucial.
Being easy to start and play anytime is a big plus for Among Us. You can dive into a game wherever you are. This has played a key role in its popularity as a multiplayer mobile game.
Plus, there’s a lot you can customize in the game. You get to change how your character looks and how the game runs. This makes every match feel more personal and special, enhancing the thrill of finding the betrayer.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Role Assignment | Players are randomly assigned roles as crewmates or impostors. |
Customizable Settings | Variety of settings to tailor game experience. |
Task Mechanism | Crewmates complete tasks while impostors attempt sabotage. |
Emergency Meetings | Facilitate discussion and voting to identify impostors. |
Among Us stands out thanks to how it combines multiplayer gaming with social play. It’s become a favorite for many, making it a star in the world of mobile gaming. Its unique use of strategy and psychology keeps people hooked.
Arena of Valor
Arena of Valor brings the excitement of big PC MOBAs to your phone. Developed by Tencent, it leads the MOBA genre on mobile. It’s known for its simple, yet deep strategic gameplay.
This game offers everyone a fair chance to win. It’s popular for competitive mobile gaming and ranks among the top 10 best mobile games. Even if you’re new, you’ll find it easy to get into real-time strategy gaming here.
If you love strategy, Arena of Valor is a must-play for you. It shows that top-notch gaming isn’t just for consoles or PCs. With big numbers in e-sports, like a $2.2 million prize pool, it’s a big deal in competitive gaming.
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Annual Prize Pool | $2.2 Million |
Watched Hours | 70 Million |
Active Players | 500 Million |
Daily Players | 75 Million |
These numbers make Arena of Valor a top choice in mobile gaming. It’s respected and loved by many for its online gaming thrills. It’s a key player in the MOBA world, promising a strong future in mobile esports.
Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact is a top RPG game on mobile. It ranks among the best on iOS and Android. The game pulls you in with its exciting play and beautiful graphics.
Game Mechanics
In Genshin Impact, you explore a big, open world. You fight using a system that collects characters. Characters use different elements which can mix in cool ways. This makes battles rich and fascinating. The game stays fresh with new updates, adding characters and adventures.
Visuals and Sound
The game’s visuals are an eyeful with high-quality details. Its fantasy world feels real. And its music, created by a full orchestra, draws you in too. This all makes your gaming experience really immersive and unforgettable.
All in all, Genshin Impact treats players to a world of engaging gameplay and rich sights and sounds. It’s a leading choice for anyone who loves RPGs on their phones.
Game | Metascore | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Pokémon GO | 69 | Augmented Reality, Regular Content Updates |
Honkai: Star Rail | 80 | Sci-Fi Setting, Turn-Based Combat |
Call of Duty: Mobile | 81 | Deep Weapons-Based Gameplay |
Reigns: Her Majesty | 81 | Strategy, Societal Metrics |
Genshin Impact | 82 | Open-World Exploration, Elemental Interactions |
Hello Kitty Island Adventure | 83 | Animal Crossing-Style Gameplay |
Slay the Spire | 83 | Deckbuilding, Roguelike Mechanics |
Marvel Snap | 85 | Quick Gameplay, Collectible Cards |
Call of Duty: Mobile
Call of Duty: Mobile stands out in multiplayer games, blending console and mobile gaming. It shines in the top 10 mobile games, carrying on the legacy of its iconic forerunners. It offers thrilling gameplay for all.
It has many maps, modes, and weapons that push it to the top of reviews.
With multiplayer, Zombies, and a battle royale mode for 100 players, it never gets boring. This title is great for both skilled players and those who play for fun.
Multiplayer Experience
The multiplayer part is truly exceptional in Call of Duty: Mobile. It has famous maps and modes, giving fans a familiar but refreshing experience.
Its action and strategy elements make for top-tier gameplay. The game’s numbers speak for themselves, with over 270 million downloads in the first year and $480 million in earnings.
Call of Duty: Mobile is easy to pick up and play anywhere. It’s highly rated for its on-the-go matches. The game satisfies both serious and casual players, claiming a spot as one of the top 10 mobile titles. Its engaging updates and gameplay set a standard for mobile gaming quality.
Pokemon Go
Pokemon Go has taken mobile gaming to the next level. It blends the virtual and real worlds with its unique technology. This free game gets people moving outside to find creatures all around them. It uses your phone’s GPS, camera, and clock to make a game that’s different every day.
More than 15.4 million people have reviewed Pokemon Go, giving it an average score of 4.1. It keeps people coming back with its social events and regular updates. This has helped it stay a favorite among mobile games.
Pokemon Go is praised for mixing real exploration with fun gaming experiences. When compared to other popular games, like Call of Duty: Mobile, it’s highly competitive. For example, Call of Duty: Mobile had an 81 Metascore and 270 million downloads in its first year. Even newer games, like Marvel Snap, with an 85 Metascore show how tough the mobile gaming market is.
Game Title | Metascore | User Reviews | User Rating |
---|---|---|---|
Pokemon Go | 69 | 15.4 million | 4.1 |
Call of Duty: Mobile | 81 | 270 million downloads* | Additional details not specified |
Marvel Snap | 85 | Data not specified | Data not specified |
Honkai: Star Rail | 80 | Data not specified | Data not specified |
Pokemon Masters EX | Not listed | 503,000 | 4.3 |
Finding rare Pokemon or joining in on community events is what makes Pokemon Go special. It has changed how we think about games that combine the virtual with the real. This game stands out, even among the many free games out there, due to its widespread appeal.
Slay the Spire
“Slay the Spire” stands as a top game for building decks. It combines strategic card play with the risks of roguelikes. Players must plan carefully to beat the spire, adjusting their decks to take on foes.
“Slay the Spire” arrived on iOS in 2020 and Android in 2021, quickly earning fans. It has an 83 Metascore, showing lots of love from the mobile gaming community. Comparing it to other top games, here is how “Slay the Spire” looks:
Game | Platform | Metascore | Pricing |
---|---|---|---|
Slay the Spire | iOS, Android | 83 | £9.99 |
Call of Duty: Mobile | iOS, Android | 81 | Free |
Genshin Impact | iOS, Android | 82 | Free |
Honkai: Star Rail | iOS, Android | 80 | Free |
Marvel Snap | iOS, Android | 85 | Free |
“Slay the Spire” keeps players coming back with its simple, yet deep, gameplay. It’s a standout in deck-building and roguelike games. Its fresh take on strategy ensures it’s a game you don’t want to miss.
Marvel Snap
Marvel Snap is a hit in the world of collectible card games. It’s loved for its fast gameplay and the awesome Marvel heroes on its cards. In 2023, players spent over 300 hours playing the game, showing its big popularity with those who love gaming on their phones.
Second Dinner, the game’s maker, keeps things exciting by adding a new card every week. This way, there’s always something new for players to find. They also make sure the game is always fair with lots of updates. Plus, cool extras like the Token Shop and Conquest mode make it even more fun to play.
You can play Marvel Snap on your PC or mobile device. Most players like the mobile version best because you can play it anywhere. The game started its beta version in May 2022. Since then, it has grown a lot, with the makers talking to players on Discord and updating the game often.
In December 2023, Marvel Snap had a tough time because of some changes and bugs. But, the makers kept fixing things, which made most players happy. The game even became a way for some people to relax during hard times. It shows how important free mobile games can be in our lives.
Marvel Snap is a great example of how a card game can be a favorite on mobile devices. It stays popular because the makers and players work together to make it better all the time.
Honkai: Star Rail
On April 26, 2023, Honkai: Star Rail launched for iOS and Android. It quickly marked its spot in the world of story-based games. This game mixes solid RPG elements with an exciting story and detailed characters.
More than half of the top games in the West use the Unity engine. This means Honkai: Star Rail is part of a strong family. It ensures the game runs well and looks great.
Story and Characters
Made by miHoYo, Honkai: Star Rail pulls you into a fantastic, scientific world. It brings a vast cast of characters with unique powers and deep stories. This adds a layer of depth and fun to the gameplay.
Its turn-based fighting style fits perfectly on mobile. It mixes strategy with easy play. Players can carefully plan their moves, making each fight tough but satisfying.
A table below shows games that are also popular on iOS and Android. It highlights how Honkai: Star Rail stands out in the crowd:
Game | Release Date | Platform |
---|---|---|
Honkai: Star Rail | April 26, 2023 | iOS, Android |
LEGO Bricktales | April 27, 2023 | iOS, Android |
Hello Kitty Island Adventure | July 28, 2023 | iOS |
Rider Worlds | July 13, 2023 | iOS, Android |
Star Survivor: Premium | December 11, 2023 | iOS, Android |
Munchkin Digital | March 9, 2023 | iOS, Android |
Honkai: Star Rail is known for its deep story and exciting fights. These attributes have helped it rank at the top among turn-based mobile games. It shines as an example of what RPG games can be on mobile devices today.
Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VII changed the game for Japanese RPGs when it first came out. Now, it’s becoming a hit on mobile phones. This version keeps the great story and play style that made the original famous. It also adds features that make it easier to play on phones. This way, even more people can enjoy it.
This mobile game includes part of the whole Final Fantasy VII series. It features tales from Final Fantasy 7: Ever Crisis. Square Enix has also brought back favorites like Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Remastered and Final Fantasy 4 Pixel Remaster to play on mobile. These efforts show their commitment to mobile gaming, allowing players to relive the classics.
Final Fantasy VII proves great stories and games never get old. It has become one of the top Android games. This mobile version lets a new crowd enjoy the world of Midgar and follow Cloud and his friends. It’s a must-play for fans of JRPG mobile games.
Top 10 Best Mobile Games
In 2021, the mobile gaming world saw big changes. Many games mixed new ideas, deep stories, and fun gameplay. Here, we look at the top 10 mobile games of the year. We see how they’ve pushed the boundaries of what mobile games can be.
Among Us led the way, winning players over with its unique way of playing together. It was a big year for games like Genshin Impact, too. This game took players into a vast open world that everyone loved.
Pokemon Go kept evolving, mixing the real and virtual worlds in fun new ways. Fortnite also made a big splash with its mobile battle royale game. People loved its fast, fun gameplay.
Older games made a comeback, too. Titles like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and Chrono Trigger were perfect for fans of role-playing games. They could be found at good prices on Android devices. Minecraft stayed popular with its ability to play across different devices for only $6.99.
- Hearthstone (Rating: 4.5) – A card game set in the Warcraft universe.
- Tetris (iOS: 4.6, Android: 4.1) – This classic puzzle game kept fans happy.
- Marvel Snap (iOS: 4.8, Android: 4.3) – A quick card game with your favorite Marvel heroes.
- Subway Surfers (Rating: 4.6) – A top free choice for many, mixing endless fun with running.
Game | iOS Rating | Android Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Among Us | 4.1 | 3.8 | Free |
Genshin Impact | 4.8 | 4.7 | Free |
Minecraft | 4.6 | 4.6 | $6.99 |
Pokemon Go | 4.0 | 4.0 | Free |
Tetris | 4.6 | 4.1 | Free |
Marvel Snap | 4.8 | 4.3 | Free |
Conclusion
As we end our look at the top 10 best mobile games, we see how quality and new ideas shine in these fun games. Classics like Candy Crush Saga and Subway Surfers mix with newer hits like Monopoly Go! and Wood Nuts & Bolts Puzzle for a rich variety.
Almost 300 billion apps got downloaded worldwide in 2023, with games making up more than half. This shows how much people enjoy playing on their phones. Even though iOS had fewer downloads, it brought in over half of the money spent in these games.
On the other hand, Android phones are more popular in places like India. They lead in how many game apps get installed. It’s interesting to see how gaming varies between different phone types and locations.
What’s also cool is that many of the favorite games are the same for iOS and Android users. Over 50% of the top 30 games are loved by both. Games like Genshin Impact, Candy Crush Saga, and Clash of Clans attract players of all types around the world.
In the end, mobile games are growing fast and making a big mark in fun and entertainment. Developers and gamers work together to keep making exciting new games. For everyone who loves to play, there’s a lot to look forward to in the ever-changing world of mobile gaming.